Brennan’s Library
A space for discovery
Welcome to Brennan’s Library
Brennan’s Library is a unique library dedicated to the preservation and celebration of deaf culture, language and history.
Established in 1835, Deaf Action is the oldest deaf charity in the world. Our building has long played a central role in the life and history of the deaf community in Scotland, and we are proud to offer a space for our community to come together and discover more about their heritage, culture, and language.
Named in honour of Dr Mary Brennan, affectionately known as ‘The Mother of BSL’, for her ground-breaking efforts in establishing British Sign Language while she served at Moray House College of Education in Edinburgh during the 1970s.
By naming the library after her, we honour her legacy and continue her mission of empowerment through knowledge, identity and culture.
Set in Edinburgh, a city rich in deaf heritage and a key location in the development of deaf education and British Sign Language, Brennan’s Library carries forward a long and meaningful history, making it not just a place for books, but a home for connection, reflection and discovery.
How it works
Brennan’s Library is free and open to everyone. Whether you are researching, reading for pleasure, or simply curious about deaf topics, our library offers a welcoming and inclusive space.
The library is made up of two parts: the Reference Library, which contains materials for in-library use, and the Honesty Library, where you are welcome to borrow books and take them home.
Visitors are encouraged to spend time exploring the collection, learning at their own pace, and connecting with the rich heritage of the deaf community.
Our collections
Discover our extensive collection of books covering a wide range of topics including deaf culture, deaf biography, deaf crime, deaf fiction, deaf poetry, deaf history, deaf politics, sign language, and so much more…
Our catalogue is also available to browse online here.
The reference library
This section contains a wide-ranging collection of books and materials that explore deaf identity, language, history, literature and more. These books are for in-library use only and cannot be taken off site. Visitors are welcome to read, research or study within the library space during opening hours.
The honesty library
Read. Borrow. Swap. Donate. Enjoy!
This is a separate collection of books that can be borrowed free of charge. Operating on a trust basis, visitors are welcome to take books home and return them when they are ready. The Honesty Library features accessible and engaging titles across a broad range of topics.
Why visit?
Brennan’s Library is more than just a collection of books. It is a welcoming and inclusive space where people can:
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Learn about deaf culture, history and language
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Read and study in a peaceful and comfortable setting
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Meet others in the community
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Attend events and activities
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Borrow and access books at no cost
Plan your visit
Our opening hours are Fridays 11am – 4pm. The library is also accessible by private appointment.
For more information you can get in touch with one of the team at admin@deafaction.org
Blackwood Bar
Why not visit our comfortable bar space while you’re here, serving a selection of hot and cold drinks and delicious food.